Great Court, University of Queensland, Historic university courtyard in St Lucia campus, Brisbane, Australia.

Great Court at the University of Queensland is a central courtyard with an open lawn surrounded by heritage sandstone buildings in shades of purple, cream, and brown. The enclosed layout creates a defined space that functions as both an academic hub and social gathering area for the campus community.

The Great Court was designed by John (Jack) Hennessy and built from 1937 to 1979. Its construction was one of three major projects started by the Queensland Government in the mid-1930s to create employment, alongside Somerset Dam and the Story Bridge. The site at St Lucia had been secured in 1926 when James O'Neil Mayne and Mary Emelia Mayne gave £50,000 to the Brisbane City Council to resume the land. The area was added to the Queensland Heritage Register on 8 March 2002.

The stone carvings embedded in the sandstone walls tell stories of Queensland's natural world and people through the eyes of local craftspeople. As you walk through the courtyard, these sculptural details reveal how the place reflects regional identity and pride.

The courtyard is open and freely accessible throughout the day, welcoming both students and visitors. Campus tours offer guided explanations of the architecture and artworks, though self-guided exploration also works well if you take time to notice the details around you.

The Great Court was one of three major Queensland Government projects started in the mid-1930s to create employment during the Depression, alongside the Somerset Dam on the Stanley River and the Story Bridge. Premier William Forgan Smith announced the St Lucia construction in 1935.